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A film that entertains, inspires and is based on true events, count us in! The upcoming film starring the powerhouse duo of Jamie Foxx and Tommy Lee Jones, promises to check off all these boxes. Inspired by true events, The Burial will take audiences on a journey that mixes comedy, drama, and social justice, all wrapped up in a heartwarming narrative. The Burial centers around Jeremiah O'Keefe, portrayed by Jones, who plays the role of a funeral home owner. When a simple handshake deal goes terribly wrong, O'Keefe's family business is left in jeopardy. To save his livelihood and honor his family's legacy, O'Keefe decides to take action. In a twist of fate, he crosses paths with the charismatic and smooth-talking attorney Willie E. Gary, portrayed by Foxx. Gary, known for his charm and legal skills, becomes O'Keefe's unlikely ally in a battle to save the funeral home. Their alliance sets the stage for a story that is as much about the camaraderie between two vastly different individuals as it is about seeking justice. The best part about The Burial is that it's inspired by real-life events. The film is based on a true story that not only makes you feel warm inside but also sheds light on important issues. At its core, The Burial is a story of resilience and the fight against corporate corruption and racial injustice. The Burial also stars Jurnee Smollett, Mamoudou Athie, Pamela Reed, Bill Camp and Alan Ruck. Look out for The Burial in select theaters October 6 and on Prime Video on October 13. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Prime Video / Skip Bolen © AMAZON CONTENT SERVICES LLC

Gold sunglasses are back in style. Their glamour and sophistication transcend time. Icons like Audrey Hepburn made them iconic in the 1950s. Now celebrities and fashionistas are bringing back the vintage charm. Gold eyewear radiates elegance. It adds a touch of glitz to any look. Learn how these shades are shining again and how they flatter diverse styles. Gold is always in fashion. The Resurgence of Retro: Historical Context of Gold Sunglasses Gold sunglasses are back in style, blending nostalgia and contemporary flair. These shades have a rich history, recalling their popularity among old Hollywood stars and vintage American fashion. The revival of this classic yet modern look shows the enduring appeal of fashionable eyewear. It also connects to the evolution of American eye glasses from practical to stylish. Today, gold sunglasses not only protect our eyes, but also bridge past and present. They represent the spirit of innovation and personal style defining American fashion. Whether channeling old Hollywood glamour or elegantly finishing a modern outfit, these sunglasses shine as symbols of the ever-changing story of fashion. Golden Glamour: The Contemporary Appeal of Gold Sunglasses Gold sunglasses are back in style, blending nostalgia and contemporary flair. These shades have a rich history, recalling their popularity among old Hollywood stars and vintage American fashion. The revival of this classic yet modern look shows the enduring appeal of fashionable eyewear. It also connects to the evolution of American eye glasses from practical to stylish. Today, gold sunglasses not only protect our eyes, but also bridge past and present. They represent the spirit of innovation and personal style defining American fashion. Whether channeling old Hollywood glamour or elegantly finishing a modern outfit, these sunglasses shine as symbols of the ever-changing story of fashion. Shop sunglasses to get the trendy gold style. The Aesthetic Versatility of Gold Sunglasses Gold sunglasses have a beauty that goes beyond their rich, luxurious color. Their versatility allows them to effortlessly enhance a variety of fashion looks. From casual weekend outfits to formal evening attire, gold sunglasses add a touch of sophistication without overpowering your personal style. The delicate balance between classic and contemporary gives gold eyewear the ability to complement diverse colors, patterns, and accessories. Pair them with vintage-chic styles, modern minimalist looks, or even bold avant-garde outfits. The gilded accent elevates while still letting your individuality shine through. Gold sunglasses serve as a bridge between eras, blending retro charm with innovative modern design. They allow fashion enthusiasts to curate a look that feels uniquely their own. This adaptability means gold eyewear not only works with your current wardrobe, but will also stand the test of time to remain a cherished accessory for years to come. Gold metal frames sunglasses elevate any look. Their glamorous metallic shine adds an instant touch of confidence and self-expression to your personal style. Gold shades complement endless outfit options, from dresses to casual wear. Their versatility makes them a wardrobe staple. So let these timeless sunglasses shine a golden glow that brings out your inner star. Celebrities and Influencers: Setting the Gold Standard Gold sunglasses are popular again thanks to celebrities and influencers who have embraced this glamorous accessory. On the red carpet, famous stars rely on gold shades to give off luxury and status vibes, perfectly matching their dazzling designer outfits. The metallic sunglasses add drama and flair to any look, becoming a bold fashion symbol of their fame and success. Beyond the red carpet, influencers and style icons have brought gold sunglasses into everyday outfits. By mixing the flashy shades into casual chic street style, they show regular people how to work this trend into their own aesthetics. The gold sunglasses give outfits a touch of glamour and confidence. With both celebrities and influencers rocking them, gold sunglasses are now must-have fashion statements. Their ability to pull off these bold accessories shows that gold sunglasses aren't just eyewear - they embody fearless style, luxury, and trendsetting flair. Thanks to prominent figures embracing the gold standard, these sunglasses are back in the spotlight. Choosing the Perfect Pair: Factors to Consider Finding the perfect pair of gold sunglasses requires balancing fashion and function. Choose frames that flatter your face shape - oval, round, square, heart or diamond. Lens color impacts style and eye protection. Go classic with aviators, retro with cat-eyes or on-trend with oversized shapes. Prioritize UV protection for eye health. Ultimately, select gold shades that align with your personal aesthetics - bold and eye-catching or subtle and understated. Thoughtfully weigh design, fit and function to curate sunglasses that showcase your unique taste and lifestyle. With so many options, it's an exciting chance to find the ideal pair that's perfectly you! Accessorizing with Gold Sunglasses: Dos and Don'ts Accessorizing with gold sunglasses can open up fun and creative outfit possibilities. But like any art form, it takes a delicate balance to pull off a harmonious look. The key is leaning into the dos and avoiding the don'ts when coordinating your eyewear. Do consider how the color palette of your outfit interacts with the gold tones - warm earthy shades, neutrals, and even deep jewel tones often pair beautifully with gold's subtle metallic glow. Don't overdo the bling; let the sheen of the gold frame shine as the focal point. Do make sure your shades enhance and complement your overall look, rather than competing for attention. Don't forget the power of contrast - pairing unexpected hues with gold eyewear can create striking visual effects. Do play with different textures and patterns, but don't let them overwhelm your face - remember, the frames should flatter your features, not hide them. By thoughtfully following these tips, you can seamlessly integrate gold sunglasses into your personal style with a sophisticated, stylish and uniquely you look. Beyond Fashion: Gold Sunglasses as a Statement Piece Gold sunglasses are more than just a fashion accessory - they make a statement. When someone chooses to wear gold shades, they are intentionally projecting an aura of individuality and confidence. The shiny gold frames don't just reflect light, they reflect a deliberate embrace of luxury and personal flair. Like an artist's signature on a painting, gold sunglasses carry a distinctive touch, demanding a closer look and starting conversations. They signal that the wearer is bold, stylish, and ready to stand out from the crowd. Putting on a pair of gold sunglasses becomes an act of self-expression, going beyond sun protection. It shows an appreciation for aesthetics and a willingness to make an impression. With each step taken behind golden lenses, the wearer tells a story of their unique taste, charisma, and poise. Gold sunglasses allow their chosen narrative to glimmer brightly for all to see. More than a trendy accessory, they provide a chance to share one's inner light. Embrace the Radiance of Gold Sunglasses Gold sunglasses captivate with their timeless, glamorous allure. Their metallic gleam speaks to our spirit - reflecting confidence, luxury, and the freedom to express individuality. Throughout changing fashions, their appeal endures. Gold sunglasses allow us to play with glamour, becoming spotlight-ready versions of ourselves when adorned. Yet with versatility, they also add a touch of glam to casual looks. So as gold sunglasses rise and fall in popularity, their luster still entices. In their warm shimmer, we see the reflection of our own light. By embracing them, we embrace the chance to radiate our unique selves in the sun's glow.

Eddie Murphy is back and this time it's in a heartwarming and hilarious holiday film, Candy Cane Lane. Directed by Reginald Hudlin and with a screenplay by Kelly Younger, this festive comedy adventure promises to be an amazing addition to your holiday movie watchlist. The film follows Eddie Murphy's character, Chris, as he embarks on a mission to win his neighborhood's annual Christmas home decoration contest. However, things take an unexpected turn when Chris makes a deal with a mischievous elf named Pepper, played by Jillian Bell. In an attempt to improve his chances of winning, Pepper casts a magical spell that brings the 12 Days of Christmas to life, resulting in chaos and mayhem throughout the town. To save Christmas and prevent Pepper's magical mischief from ruining the holidays for his family and neighbors, Chris, his wife Carol (Tracee Ellis Ross), and their three children must race against the clock. Their journey is filled with humorous encounters with deviously magical characters, creating a blend of laughter and heartwarming moments that define the holiday spirit. Hudlin expressed his excitement about the project, saying, "I can’t wait for the world to see 'Candy Cane Lane.' I’ve wanted to make a Christmas movie my whole life, but I wanted to do something fresh and surprising. Eddie Murphy and this hilarious cast really bring the funny, it’s super Christmas-y, and it will hit you right in the feels." With Hudlin's passion for creating a unique Christmas movie experience, it's evident that Candy Cane Lane will offer a refreshing take on the genre. The film boasts an all-star ensemble cast that includes the talented Jillian Bell, Ken Marino, Nick Offerman, Robin Thede, Chris Redd, D.C. Young Fly and Anjelah Johnson-Reyes. Candy Cane Lane premieres on Prime Video on December 1. Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com

It’s time for Sean Combs to be honored for all his hard work over his career. Diddy will be honored with the Global Icon Award at the MTV Video Music Awards. He will also do this thing on stage, live performing for the culture. MTV on Tuesday announced that Combs will rack up the prestigious award for his “unparalleled career and continued influence that has achieved unrivaled global success in music and beyond.” Combs is known by most as a “multi-hyphenate media mogul who made his mark as a rapper, producer, fashion entrepreneur, among many other titles." Puffy’s success in the music industry has spanned more than three decades, and really took off after his No. 1 artist, the Notorious BIG, was murdered in 1997 in Los Angeles in retaliation of the murder of Tupac Shakur, who was gunned down in Las Vegas following a Mike Tyson fight. He would go on to appear on five No. 1 singles on the Billboard Hot 100 and released two No. 1 albums on the Billboard 200 album charts. Additionally, he was nominated in four categories at this year’s (2023) award show. Creepin (Remix),” which is his collaboration with Metro Boomin, The Weeknd and 21 Savage, is up for nomination for best R&B and best collaboration video. And, his video for Gotta Move On, featuring Bryson Tiller, Ashanti and Yung Miami, is up for nomination for best collaboration and hip-hop video. But way before this recent success, Diddy was at the helm of a Bad Boy label in the 90s with main star Christopher Wallace anchoring the company. The Label had artists such as 112, Craig Mack, Mase, The Lox and Faith Evans as well. Once BIG succumbed to gunshot wounds, Diddy doled out I’ll be Missing You. And still to this day, Puffy pays famed rockstar Sting $2,000 a day for sampling his song for the tribute track song, according to hotnewhiphop.com. Under the label, hits such as Whoa by Black Rob, Peaches & Cream by 112, Hypnotize by BIG, I’ll Be Missing You by Diddy and I Need A Girl, among other hits, have helped Sean Combs continue to make even more music, soliciting several more business opportunities, which has upped his net worth to billionaire status. He will once again be rewarded by the VMA Awards, a platform he appeared on for the first time in 2005, according to the Daily News. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

Bronny James has been seen in the public eye since his recent health scare. And one would think it’s just a matter of time before a prodigy’s son could return to playing basketball at a high level. Back in July, the son of LeBron James suffered a cardiac arrest while practicing with USC’s basketball team. A couple of days later, he was released from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Cedars-Sinai Medical Group cardiologist Dr. Merije Chukumerije said James was successfully treated for a sudden cardiac arrest, according to the New York Post. LeBron said he is grateful for his family. “We have our family together, safe and healthy, and we feel your love,” James said, thanking others for sending the family supportive messages. “Will have more to say when we’re ready but I wanted to tell everyone how much your support has meant to all of us!" Since then, James has been spotted at several sporting events, including most recently at a USC football game when the Trojans were playing Nevada this past Saturday. There is a viral picture of James in a picture with 13 women. But will he return to the court? Well, not only is he appearing at all these major sporting events, but he’s also doing well in the classroom. USC men’s basketball coach Andy Enfield said James is doing exceptional, according to People. "The good thing is he's doing extremely well and he's in class right now. And we all love him," Enfield said, according to ESPN. "I think everybody is hopeful that Bronny will return to the court. We just have to be patient and take it step by step." Recently, the James family announced that Bronny was diagnosed with “an anatomically and functionally significant Congenital Heart Defect.” Still, James, a 6-foot-3 guard considered a top prospect in college, should return to the court very soon. "We are very confident in Bronny’s full recovery and return to basketball in the very near future. We will continue to provide updates to media and respectfully reiterate the family's request for privacy." James (18) is the oldest of James' kids, as he and his brother Bryce, who also plays basketball, were born in 2004 and 2007 respectively. And their youngest sister, Zhuri, was born in 2014. It has been reported by many media outlets that LeBron has the desire to play with Bronny. We shall see if that happens, as LeBron is well on his way to doing that thanks to keeping his skills sharp and his body well-conditioned heading into year 21. USC’s first basketball game is slated for Nov. 6 vs. Kansas State.

Derrick Hayes, founder and CEO of Big Dave's Cheesesteaks, recently made a blockbuster announcement regarding the next step in building his empire. The West Philadelphia native is allowing fans and entrepreneurs to franchise his Big Dave's Cheesesteak restaurant and start building or adding to their business portfolio. "I think entrepreneurs are going to eat it up,” Hayes said in a recent interview with CNBC. “Pun intended...I already know that we have the No. 1 cheesesteak in the country!” The 36-year-old started his entrepreneurial career in Dunwoody, Georgia, in 2014 by selling water ice at a Shell gas station. After moving on from that venture, Hayes began selling cheesesteaks. Despite reinventing his business, he still struggled until one customer helped change the trajectory of his life. Actress, rapper and TV host Eve helped put his business on the map with the power of social media. Thanks to Eve's support and Hayes' tenacity the game-changing entrepreneur opened his flagship Big Dave's Cheesesteak location in Downtown Atlanta in 2019. Now, Hayes is expanding his business with new franchise applications and by adding multiple new Big Dave's Cheesesteak locations, including three inside of the Mercedes-Benz Stadium and his first location in Charlotte, North Carolina, planned for the fall. With a goal of opening 100 Big Dave's Cheesesteaks by the end of 2025, Hayes has a monumental task on his hands. But as he has shown throughout his career, giving back always takes center focus in what he does. Allowing the dream that he has built to be open for others to also build their dreams is on par with the testament of who Hayes is. Only 8% of franchise owners are Black, according to data from the International Franchise Association. Black franchisees have revenues 220% higher than independent Black-owned businesses on average, the data finds. In one location alone, Hayes does $2.3 million in revenue. In an Instagram post, the philanthropist captioned "You better get you one of these," regarding the launch of the application to franchise. Hayes has come a long way from his humble beginnings when he opened his first location. The franchise is named after Hayes' father, who died from cancer in 2009. He credits his father and grandfather for their positive influences and sparking an interest in cooking. He continues to honor his father's legacy by creating his signature sandwich, "Dave's Way" cheesesteak, and expanding his brand with Big Daves All Purpose Spice, which is sold on his website. As of now, Hayes is seeking franchisees currently in the food business, but eventually hopes to inspire people who have faced legal troubles, do not have a college degree, or lack experience to follow their dreams of owning a business. "I wasn’t an entrepreneur, I wasn’t a businessman. I’m making it for the people. If they want to get involved with what we’re building, we are going to help them up,” Hayes mentioned in his CNBC interview. Hayes has built his career and always recognized the importance of giving back. He and his wife Pinky-Cole Hayes, owner of Slutty Vegan, generously gave life insurance to Black men earning under $30,000 a year. The couple also partnered with Clarke Atlanta University to provide $600,000 in scholarships. In addition to helping those in need during a crisis, Hayes mentors young black men and helps them recognize their worth as valuable contributors to society. With a booming restaurant business and supporting the community, Hayes has formed partnerships with Fortune 500 companies and collaborated on multiple brand deals. Photo Credit: Brian Javon

His Airness has skyrocketed even more. It’s been reported recently that Michael Jordan’s net worth has ballooned to $3.5 billion, according to AfroTech.com. But what’s his secret? Well, rapper Killer Mike recently spoke about the six-time NBA champion’s dominance on the Joe Rogan Experience podcast, and how he was able to capture a move that catapulted his brand into a $3.5 net worth. “I think I realized Michael Jordan’s secret, that fadeaway jumper, his brother. Quickness in the move, his brother. You could tell he had to adjust his game cause he is playing short of dudes, so he couldn’t shoot a jumper; he had to do a fadeaway. How many times you seen Michael do that to another player," Killer Mike said. The famous fadeaway jumper has been seen around the world, as Jordan would shoot over the likes of Muggsy Bogues, Charles Barkley, Larry Johnson and Byron Russell. Killer Mike knows where this skill set came from: Jordan’s competitive spirit was forged in his household thanks to his father and brother pushing him. Playing one-on-one seemed to be more about fighting. Jordan’s brother was taller for much of the time Jordan was growing up, so this resulted in the Chicago Bull legend being punished. If Jordan’s older brother had grown a little taller, he might have been Jordan-like. But that didn’t happen. Instead, Jordan grew taller, and he was able to hone that rage he felt from losing to his brother to playing so well that he earned a scholarship to North Carolina. His status elevated so much that he became a six-time champion, a 10-time scoring champion, a five-time MVP and a six-time finals MVP, among other accolades. Well before this coronation thanks to the Nike and Gatorade ad campaign, Jordan made arguably the best business decision of all time by joining Nike in the 80s. The brand is the reason why Jordan is a billionaire today, as according to The Street, he earns close to $255 million every year from the deal. But he recently sold his majority stake in the NBA’s Charlotte Hornets, and that, along with other major investments, helped his net worth increase to a whopping $3.5 billion. “I’m thrilled to be able to pass the reins to two successful, innovative and strategic leaders in Gabe and Rick,” Jordan said in a statement issued on August 3. “I know the Hornets organization is in great hands moving forward. I’m excited about the future of the team and will continue to support the organization and the community in my new role in the years ahead.”

Athletics offers individuals an avenue to test their limits, fostering discipline, teamwork, and perseverance. For the hearing-impaired community, however, the path to athletic prowess is paved with unique challenges. Affordable hearing aids have emerged as an essential tool, enabling these athletes to thrive. We dive deep into the pivotal role of these devices. The Challenges Faced by Hearing-Impaired Athletes Athletes with hearing impairments confront challenges that often go unnoticed by their hearing counterparts. Beyond the regular rigors of sport, they grapple with communication barriers and safety concerns. Communication on the Field For hearing-impaired athletes, missing a shout, a cue, or a strategy can be commonplace. This often leads to miscommunication, affecting both the athlete and the team's overall performance. In dynamic team sports like football or basketball, a missed auditory signal can mean the difference between a win and a loss. Safety Concerns Auditory cues are not just about performance; they're about safety. The sounds that many athletes take for granted — a referee's whistle or an approaching opponent — can be inaudible to those with hearing impairments. This lack of auditory awareness can increase the risk of collisions or other accidents during play. Team Dynamics and Bonding Sporting events aren't just about competition; they're about camaraderie. Hearing-impaired athletes might find it challenging to engage in spontaneous team discussions, missing out on building deeper connections with teammates. The Power of Accessible Hearing Solutions With the advent of affordable hearing aids, athletes with hearing challenges are finding their rhythm in the athletic world. These devices are not merely amplifiers but bridges to enhanced performance and camaraderie. Leveling the Playing Field Every athlete dreams of that perfect game, that flawless performance. For hearing-impaired athletes, affordable hearing aids can make this dream attainable. With better communication, they can synchronize with their teammates, anticipate plays, and strategize in real-time. Building Confidence and Self-Esteem Beyond the physical realm of sports, there's a psychological aspect that's equally vital. With the right hearing aids, athletes feel empowered. They're no longer held back by the fear of missing out, leading to a more assertive and confident presence on the field. Enhancing Training Efficiency Training sessions form the foundation of any athlete's performance. With improved hearing, these athletes can better follow coaches' instructions, making the most of every training session and improving at a faster pace. If you're wondering about which affordable hearing aids are the best on the market, consider checking out this insightful article by Wish TV that discusses the top affordable hearing aids. Their comprehensive review might guide you in making an informed choice. The Economic and Social Impact of Affordable Hearing Aids The ripple effects of affordable hearing aids extend well beyond individual benefits. They influence economies, reshape social narratives, and drive forward the cause of inclusivity. Economic Considerations While initial investments in hearing aids can be significant, the long-term returns — in terms of enhanced athletic performance and potential sponsorships — can outweigh the costs. Schools and organizations can also benefit by attracting a broader pool of talent, thanks to these accessible devices. Promotion of Inclusivity in Sports Inclusivity is the future of sports. With accessible hearing aids, athletes with hearing impairments can join mainstream sports without reservations. This not only enhances team dynamics but also sends a powerful message about the universality of sports. Raising Awareness and Advocacy Every hearing-impaired athlete who steps onto the field with the aid of these devices becomes an ambassador, indirectly raising awareness about hearing challenges and advocating for further innovations and societal support. The Future Outlook As technology gallops forward and societal understanding deepens, the future seems promising for hearing-impaired athletes. With more innovations on the horizon and growing institutional support, the next era of sports promises inclusivity and excellence. Technological Advancements Tomorrow's hearing aids will be more than just devices; they'll be companions in the truest sense. With features like noise filtering and integration with other wearables, they'll offer athletes a comprehensive sensory experience. Community and Institutional Support Communities and institutions are the bedrock of change. As more institutions recognize the potential of hearing-impaired athletes, we can expect tailored training programs, dedicated resources, and a more inclusive sporting culture. The Global Push for Inclusivity As countries and global sporting bodies recognize the potential of hearing-impaired athletes, there will be a global push towards policies and practices that promote inclusivity at every level of sport. Affordable hearing aids are more than devices; they're harbingers of change. They promise a world where hearing-impaired athletes no longer play in the shadows but shine brightly in the spotlight. As we advance, it is this vision of inclusivity and excellence that will shape the future of sports. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

In a monumental step toward reshaping America's stance on drug policy, President Joe Biden has initiated discussions surrounding the declassification of marijuana. This potential shift signifies a departure from decades of prohibitionist policies and marks a turning point in the nation's approach to drug regulation. As the movement gains momentum, it raises important questions about the implications, benefits and challenges of such a decision. Learn more about the significance of President Biden's consideration to declassify marijuana and its potential impact. The Current Landscape Marijuana, once deemed a dangerous substance by federal law, has been classified as a Schedule I drug since the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) of 1970. This classification places it in the same category as substances like heroin and LSD, severely limiting research opportunities and hindering its potential medical applications. Over the years, however, public opinion on marijuana has evolved, with numerous states legalizing it for medicinal and even recreational use. President Biden's Stance President Biden's perspective on marijuana has evolved over time. While he was a vocal supporter of strict drug policies during his tenure as a senator, his approach has softened in recent years. He has expressed openness to medical marijuana, and his administration has taken steps to address some of the inequities caused by the War on Drugs, particularly within communities of color. Politico reported that the Biden administration's Department of Human Services wants the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to loosen the federal restrictions currently held on marijuana. The agency wants the drug to be classified as Schedule III instead of Schedule I under the CSA. The DEA classifies drugs classified as Schedule III as "substances with a low to moderate potential for physical and psychological dependence.” These drugs can still lead to addiction or abuse but are less dangerous than drugs in Schedules I and II. Declassification's Potential Impact Criminal Justice Reform: One of the most compelling arguments for declassifying marijuana is its potential to advance criminal justice reform. The War on Drugs disproportionately impacted minority communities, leading to unjust arrests and lengthy sentences. Declassification could pave the way for expunging criminal records related to low-level marijuana offenses, offering a fresh start to many individuals. Economic Opportunities: The legal cannabis industry has already shown impressive growth in states where it's permitted. Nationwide declassification could create new economic opportunities, generating jobs and tax revenue that could contribute to community development and public services. Medical Research and Treatment: Declassifying marijuana could revolutionize medical research, enabling scientists to explore its potential therapeutic applications more freely. With ongoing studies suggesting its effectiveness in treating conditions like chronic pain, epilepsy, and even post-traumatic stress disorder, such research could lead to groundbreaking medical breakthroughs. Public Health and Safety: Legalization and regulation of marijuana could enhance public safety by eliminating the black market and ensuring product quality. Strict regulations would help prevent contamination and ensure that products are accurately labeled, promoting responsible use. Fiscal Benefits: The taxation of legal marijuana sales could generate significant revenue for both federal and state governments, potentially aiding in funding various public programs and initiatives. Challenges and Considerations While the prospect of declassification holds promise, it also comes with challenges. Critics argue that marijuana is still associated with potential health risks, particularly for young users. Balancing personal freedom with public health concerns will be a complex task. Additionally, navigating international drug treaties and addressing concerns about impaired driving are essential considerations. President Biden's willingness to explore the declassification of marijuana reflects the changing dynamics of public opinion and the evolving understanding of the drug's potential benefits. The conversation surrounding this issue is far from over, but the fact that it's being discussed at the highest levels of government marks a significant shift. As the nation grapples with the complexities of this potential change, one thing is certain: The trajectory of drug policy in the United States is entering a new chapter, one that has the potential to reshape communities, economies, and medical landscapes for years to come. Photo Credit: DepositPhotos.com

As an R&B connoisseur, I'm always on the lookout for young artists who vocally and lyrically excite me like the 90s/2000s artists who are on repeat on my playlists. With social media being an easy way for musicians to get their music out to the public, I often come across a lot of new artists but not many make it far enough for me to listen more than the trendy 10-15 second TikTok trend. But when I first heard Zae France's What It Do featuring Fridayy, I had to dive into who this young artist was and listen to more of his music. Zae France is a singer/songwriter who was born in North Carolina but was raised in Connecticut. He's currently signed under Compound Entertainment, a subsidiary created by Ne-Yo under the Def Jam umbrella. I listened to his first body of work, Rhythm N Backwoods, which he released in 2019 and really enjoyed the mood of the tracks. The vibe is soulful and his heartfelt lyrics take you on a journey involving love, sex and relationships. On Thursday, August 24, France released his latest EP, Rhythm n Backwoods Szn II. His new music continues the journey of his emotions and thoughts but also shows how he has evolved as an artist. Before the release his latest EP, I had the opportunity to learn more about what inspires Zae France, his thoughts on the current state of R&B and the best advice he received from Ne-Yo. I read that You made a switch from football to music. what ignited that switch? It wasn't by choice, honestly. I'd still be playing football if I did not move as much as I did growing up. They say that sometimes your purpose in life comes to you naturally, and that's how I feel about music. Where do you pull creative inspiration from? The music sets the vibe for sure. Once I lock into a beat, I'm able to lay the framework, conceptually, on where I wanna take the music. I also pull from experiences in general, whether the inspo comes from me, first-hand or not. Life is the blueprint, and we all, in some ways, go through the same things. How has North Carolina inspired your music? I'd say growing up in North Carolina is the inspiration. I sang in the church, so you can say that was my introduction to hearing music with soul and purpose. I don't make gospel music, but I def tap into the rhythm and soul of R&B. What are your thoughts about the current state of R&B? There's space to put the soul in R&B back because I feel like people are looking for more right now. All of us who are in R&B have our lane, so my focus is to build with my fans because that's what matters most of all. This vibe ain't for everybody [laughs]. Who musically inspires you and why? Right now, I'm locking into my music. My EP just dropped, but I'm working on the album too. I'm getting the most inspiration from the folks I'm working with on this project. I know that's a cop-out answer, but that's where I'm at with it. You have a great working relationship with Ne-Yo, what's the best advice he has given you? He told me once that I deserve to be here, which stuck with me because when you're coming up as an artist, sometimes you get stuck in your head about where things are going. What do you want people to feel after listening to your music? It's a Zae France season, and I'm not letting up any time soon! Listen to Rhythm n Backwoods Szn II below and make sure to follow Zae France on Instagram. Photo Credit: Breyona Holt

Car lovers and car enthusiasts get ready for an adrenaline-fueled ride with a new show coming to Hulu. Yesterday, Onyx Collective announced that it will be premiering its new automotive docu-series in November featuring Hip-Hop legend and car collector Swizz Beatz. Drive With Swizz Beatz will take viewers on a global journey exploring the vibrant car cultures that thrive in various cities around the world. The six-episode series is the brainchild of Swizz Beatz, whose real name is Kasseem Dean, and will also feature his son, Nasir Dean, who goes by the name Note Mercato. This dynamic duo will traverse through a range of domestic and international locations, including Los Angeles, New York, Houston, Atlanta, Japan and Saudi Arabia. At the heart of the series is the exploration of car culture as a universal language that unites people from diverse backgrounds. Swizz Beatz and Note Mercato will dive deep into each location's distinctive car scene, shedding light on how automobiles serve as more than just modes of transportation; they are vehicles that drive communities, connect individuals and tell stories of triumph. Drive With Swizz Beatz isn't your typical travel documentary as viewers will see the father-son bond between Swizz and his son and see similar relationships with other people who have built a familial bond over cars. The father-son duo also bring together car clubs that may have previously operated in isolation. Through their shared passion for cars and their remarkable personal stories, these clubs find common ground and establish connections that transcend geographical boundaries. Drive With Swizz Beatz premieres on Thursday, November 16 on Hulu. Photo Credit: Hulu

There looks to be a win for those on the side of the writer’s strike. A federal judge earlier in August upheld a finding from the US Copyright Office “that a piece of art created by AI is not open to protection,” according to The Hollywood Reporter. The ruling was delivered in an order that turned down Stephen Thaler’s bid challenging the government’s position of "refusing to register works made by AI." US District Judge Beryl Howell found that the copyright law has “never stretched so far” to “protect works generated by new forms of technology operating absent any guiding human hand.” The judge’s opinion was all about human authorship being a bedrock requirement. Thaler, the chief executive of neural network firm Imagination Engines, spearheaded the push for protection of works created by AI. Back in 2018, he listed an AI system -- known as the Creativity Machine -- as the only creator of an artwork, A Recent Entrance to Paradise, which was described as “autonomously created by a computer algorithm running on a machine.” In response, the Copyright Office denied the application, informing that “the nexus between the human mind and creative expression” is a crucial element of protection. Then Thaler, who listed himself as the owner of the copyright under the work-for-hire doctrine, sued in a lawsuit, which contests the denial and the office’s human authorship requirement. He contested that AI should be acknowledged as “an author where it otherwise meets authorship criteria,” with any and all ownership vesting in the machine’s owner. He also contested that the office’s refusal was “arbitrary, capricious, an abuse of discretion and not in accordance with the law” in violation of the Administrative Procedure Act, which “provides for judicial review of agency actions.” The questioned asked in the lawsuit was whether a work provided only by a computer falls under the copyright law protection. “In the absence of any human involvement in the creation of the work, the clear and straightforward answer is the one given by the Register: No,” Howell wrote. US copyright law “protects only works of human creation” and is designed to adapt with the times.” There’s been an understanding that human creativity is “at the core of copyrightability, even as that human creativity is channeled through new tools or into new media.”